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The History of the Eldon Public Library

At the dawn of the 20th century, the town of Eldon was thriving with the promise of continued growth as a bustling railroad community. In 1906, a determined group of residents came together with a shared vision—to bring the world of books and learning to their town. Through grassroots fundraising and generous contributions, they rented an upstairs room in a local business and opened Eldon's very first library.

By 1908, the library association was formally incorporated under state law. With that milestone came official support from the City of Eldon, ensuring ongoing maintenance and stability for the budding institution.

In 1911, the library association reached out to famed philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, hoping to secure funding for a permanent home. After successfully meeting all of Carnegie’s requirements, Eldon was awarded a grant of $7,500. Plans moved forward, and on May 9, 1913, the new Carnegie Library was formally dedicated during a service at the Eldon Christian Church.

The elegant structure quickly became a cornerstone of the community and has remained a symbol of Eldon’s commitment to literacy and education for over a century. On October 15, 1996, the Eldon Public Library building was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, honoring its rich heritage and lasting significance.